Peru Travel Guide

Peru

Google Peru and you’ll be overwhelmed by pictures of Machu Picchu. Although stunningly fascinating and beautiful, this landmark is far from the only reason you should visit Peru. This beautiful South American country, located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean has much to offer. Its location promises spectacular views and dreamy beaches where one can relax and unwind. Those more adventurous can enjoy the raw wilderness of the Amazon and hike around the beautiful countryside. Years and years of traditions and culture have left a significant historical legacy that fascinates everyone. So no matter on your preferences you’ll be able to find something for yourself in Peru. A home to kind and friendly people and a country that is easy on the budget. No wonder backpackers love it so much.

To make your traveling more enjoyable, read this short and informative travel guide to help you around and make your stay easy.

What to see and do in Peru

Lima

Is the capital of Peru bustling with history. The city is nestled in the valleys of the Chillón, Rímac and Lurín rivers, offering spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. The downtown is busy but the city is beautiful, and its architecture is extremely photogenic with numerous features, ranging from ancient Incans to Spanish colonial times. It’s also a great place to party, shop, or enjoy the beach life.

Machu Picchu

It goes without saying that the “lost city of the Incas” is one of the most renowned landmarks. Not only in Peru but in the whole world. This fascinating historical site is located high up in the Andes. The ruins that speak the story of the Incas are more or less always covered in foggy clouds which add to the mystical magic of the place. Here you can travel back in time and experience the architecture of that era. From the limestone and granite temples, aqueducts and steep stairs, Machu Picchu is a truly unique and one of a kind experience. You can reach the area by the Inca Trail or by train. Inca Trail is a wonderful multi-day hike and is one of the best ways to experience Machu Picchu. You need to hurry with your tour booking as it fills up quickly.

Explore the heights of Lake Titicaca

The fascinating beauty of the lake and its surroundings are set high up in the air of the Andes mountains. In fact, this mesmerizing body of water is considered the world’s largest high altitude lake. You can choose from a wide variety of activities. Explore the small towns, hike around, visit one of the islands, or simply sit down and take in the beauty of its deep, blue water. Because of the high altitude headaches and dizziness are common. To avoid them, drink plenty of fluids, preferably coca tea and water.

Get lost in the Amazon

The Amazon River and the rainforest are beautiful and wild, so it’d be a real shame if you missed the opportunity to explore them. If you want to discover unique wildlife, cruise the river, and see how the “lungs of the world” look like. Iquitos, the largest city in the northern part of the jungle, is a great base for exploring in this area. In the southern part, you can enjoy the natural wonders in Manu Biosphere Reserve or Tambopata Candamo Reserved Zone.

Explore Cusco

Everything about it is very attractive. From the convenient location close to the country’s most popular destination Machu Picchu to the rich and captivating legacy of the city itself. This picturesque and charming colonial city has a lot to offer. Thanks to its incredible history and architecture it was declared the World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983. Stroll around the beautiful Plaza de Armas and marvel at all the historic sites, or hike around the many trails. Party at night and learn about history and culture at museums during the day.

Walk on Rainbow Mountain

Who hasn’t dreamt of walking on a rainbow? Now’s your chance to do so but it won’t be easy. This spectacular mountain, located in the Andes, is hard to reach and it takes a few days of walking to get there. However, if you’re an adventure seeker and an avid hiker then a trip to this still hidden gem and a well-kept secret is a must. The mountain stands proudly colored in all shades of lavender, gold, maroon, and turquoise and is considered holy by locals. Many pilgrims come to visit the Star Snow festival every year.

Fly over Nazca

To get a bird view of one the world’s biggest mysteries and Peru’s intriguing attraction. The Nazca Lines are located in the Nazca Desert plains and are a series of ancient geoglyphs and biomorphs. You can see shapes of different animals and a variety of geometric designs. It’s almost like a prehistoric comic book. Different theories are roaming around, but it’s still not clear how were they created.

Typical costs

Accommodation

As previously mentioned, Peru is very easy on the budget so you can get a dorm room for a low price of 8 USD per night. However, it’s more likely you’ll pay anywhere between 12-15 USD per night. Private rooms usually cost around 21-45 USD per night. Low budget hotels charge roughly 12 USD. Camping is widely available in the entire country, and it’s a great way to explore it. There aren’t many campsites (those cost around 10-15 USD per person), so you can camp for free but be sure to keep yourself safe and ask for permission. Airbnb is another option, with prices for shared rooms starting at 12 USD and 40 USD for the entire apartment.

Food and drink

Peru’s cuisine is very variable. Those following the quinoa madness will surely be happy to visit its homeland. Besides, eating out won’t cost you much as you can get cheap meals from 2-4 USD. Two can indulge in a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant for around 20 USD. Fast food meals shouldn’t cost you more than 6 USD while you’ll need around 45 USD for a week’s worth of groceries. A price for a pint of the domestic beer is 1.50 USD, and imported brands cost around 2.50 USD. Soft drinks are very cheap as well, costing less than 0.70 USD for a small bottle. Cappuccinos cost around 2.30 USD. Be sure to try one of the fresh juices. They are cheap, delicious, and nutritious! Tap water isn’t safe to drink so stick to bottled water, a small bottle cost roughly 0.40 USD.

Transportation

A one-way ticket for local transport costs less than 0.50 USD. Taxis aren’t too expensive with a starting price of 1.50 USD, and 1.50 USD per mile. However, they aren’t quite safe so you should pay extra attention and be very careful when choosing your taxi.Traveling around the country with a bus will cost around 12 USD. Prices mostly depend on the bus operators services and chosen destinations.

Sights

If you choose to see Lima from a bus, you’ll need to pay around 36 USD for a 4-hour long tour. Entrance fee for Museo Larco is some less than 10 USD for adults, 5 USD for students, and 8 USD for seniors. The most expensive are organized tours, such as multi-day trips, helicopter and plane tours… Flying over the Nazca lines costs around 130 USD. Exploring Machu Picchu costs from 40 USD and up while you’ll pay around 50 USD to enter the Inca Trail. Having fun sandboarding will cost around 12 USD.